News & Articles
PEPA and AEP Merge to Form Franciscan Emergency Physicians, Strengthening Physician-Led Care Across Baton Rouge
June 11, 2026 | BATON ROUGE, La. (Access Newswire) – Two of Louisiana’s premier emergency medicine providers, Professional Emergency Physician Associates (PEPA) and Ascension Emergency Physicians (AEP), today announced a strategic merger and rebranding to Franciscan Emergency Physicians (FEP). This transition reflects a unified commitment to physician-led excellence and the faith-based mission of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady (FMOL) Health System.
Aging Well: Our Lady of the Lake to Renovate ER, Boosting Capacity
June 2, 2026 | BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Our Lady of the Lake Medical Center in Baton Rouge is preparing for a major renovation of its emergency department, aiming to significantly expand its capacity and enhance its role as a regional medical leader.
Clinical Spotlight | Ryan Watson, MMS, PA-C
Ryan Watson, MMS, PA-C serves as the Lead Advanced Practice Provider (APP) at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center (OLOL), a Baton Rouge-based hospital with an emergency department serviced by Franciscan Emergency Physicians, an Emergency Care Partners (ECP) local private practice group.
Clinical Spotlight | Mark Laperouse, MD
Mark Laperouse, MD, brings his energy and leadership to Franciscan Emergency Physicians by serving as the group’s President. Dr. Laperouse also serves as Medical Director at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, LA.
